Bruce Arena needs to put an end to the Galaxy’s winless seven-game away streak, but this will be a tough ask at RFK Stadium.

DC have a tough run of fixtures coming up so need to make their home advantage count against the reigning MLS Cup champions. They will take consideration to Galaxy’s winless run on the road but they haven’t beaten their opponents since 2008.

Head coach Ben Olsen will be delighted that his side are not weakened by any international call-ups this week and the fact that LA are without Robbie Keane and Gyasi Zardes will be a worry for their supporters.

Team News

DC have four main injury concerns, Markus Halsti and Michael Seaton (knee), Luis Silva (hamstring) and Eddie Johnson (heart condition) will all be absent for the tie. Fabian Espindola is still suspended and without him, they have only netted once so far. Chris Pontius is likely to start alongside Jairo Arrieta once again in attack.

LA have two injuries to deal with, Kenney Walker (groin) and Brian Perk (leg). But international games have decimated the Galaxy squad as Robbie Keane, Gyasi Zardes, Oscar Sorto, Bradford Jamieson IV and Jaime Penedo will all miss out. We can expect both Stefan Ishizaki and Jose Villarreal to continue to impress while Edson Buddle will need to score the goals in the absence of Keane and Zardes.

Key Points

DC United’s form: W/L

LA Galaxy’s form: W/D/D

Key Stat: Unbeaten – As mentioned, Galaxy haven’t lost to DC since 2008 – a streak of ten games, and they will be hoping to continue that run this weekend.

Key Player: Jose Villarreal – The young winger has made a great start to the season and has reportedly turned down a US U23 call-up to play this game. He has assisted goals in the past two games, and picked up a goal in the first. Expect him to be involved if the Galaxy are to find their first away win in seven.

Score Prediction

DC United 1-2 LA Galaxy – Bruce Arena’s men have started the season well and the squad is looking good. They can take advantage of DC’s slow start but will be worked hard for a win, especially with so many players out on international duty.